There are a lot of people that have a big influence on me in the blogoverse.

The biggest inspirations for me have been Kath,Courtney,Allie, andTina. Seriously, check them out. They have so many awesome tips (food/health/exercise/nutrition) and seriously amazing recipes. I hope to join them at food blogger conventions or even be a part of their blogger meet-ups someday!

I first discovered Kath because she was the head of WordPress’s ‘Weekly Photo Challenge: Breakfast.’ Thank you, WordPress! This is my other blog where I take part in the weekly photo challenge: http://zingaling23.wordpress.com/. After I saw Kath’s post, I was hooked. You’ll be, too.

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Last night for dinner I finally made a microwaved sweet potato again! This time, with zucchini, onions, tomato & basil.

Zucchini has become one of my favorite veggies. I layered a sliced vine-ripe tomato with fresh basil, drizzled with EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), Balsamic Vinegar, S&P (Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper). I also sprinkled the potato and zukes with chili and garlic powder. I’m almost out of garlic powder, I’m an addict. Then of course I brought out the Hot Siracha Sauce for the sweet potato.

It really tastes like dessert. The sweetness of the yogurt combined with the bitterness of the cocoa creates a dark chocolate pudding taste. Plus a little crunch of the almonds – perfect way to end the day. Then Steph and I went for a walk. In the rain. To the grocery store. We’re starting to look for foods to bring with us on the plane. We left with nothing, but I’m checking out another grocery store today or tomorrow.

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And then as for the breakfast that I just demolished: Banana Nut Oatmeal. Kath is the one that inspired me to try new things in my oatmeal. It’s almost what she’s known for (like I said, check out her blog – link above!).

I started with 2-3 heaping tablespoons of rolled oats (if you think that’s not much, they expand SO much. Plus with added ingredients this oatmeal is very filling). Cook them up on the stove in some water/skim milk and a VERY overripe banana (it was black on the outside) and about a tablespoon of Gentle Fibre (pictured above).

I also added some vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt (flavor enhancing). I topped it with my failed granola bars from yesterday and some more cinnamon.

Almonds [and pistachio’s] are my favorite nuts! I LOVE nuts…haha.

Yes, I enjoyed this immensely. I am looking forward to trying new varieties of oatmeal. Let me tell you, it’s the perfect way to start the day. Fills ya right up. Plus a cup of coffee or tea – you’re set for hours!